Domino is a flat, rectangular block with 28 pieces that fit between your thumb and index finger; each face may either be blank or feature one to six pip or dot markings; it forms part of a complete domino set. Domino tiles may also be used in any number of games played using them by matching adjacent ends together and laying them down in lines or patterns.
We’ve all seen videos of long chains of dominoes toppling in an entertaining, rhythmic sequence. What makes these structures so enjoyable are not only their speed of fall but also the precision with which they were constructed: domino builders set out hundreds, or even thousands, of individual dominoes before carefully nudging each one until it falls over.
As an editor of books and novels, I often suggest to authors that every plot point and ultimately story element be seen as one domino in an ever-building chain reaction that propels their narrative forward. Starting small but remaining consistent will ensure success!
As each player takes turns playing their dominoes, a line is created on the table known as the layout, string or line of play. Sometimes this requires matching open ends of dominoes in order for it to be played; otherwise it cannot.
Most domino games featured here involve multiple players; however, most basic rules which govern multi-player domino games also apply when only two people are participating; there are a few games which can even be played solo!
Before each game begins, the players must decide who will make the first move. Usually this is determined through random selection, although those holding the highest double (see “Heaviest Tile”) may draw new tiles to add to their hand and sit themselves at the head of the table if a tie exists; otherwise it will be determined by who draws the highest domino for his or her hand.
Some games allow the players to “pass their turn” when unable to make a play. In others, players may also be allowed to “buy” tiles from a stock – this means drawing the number of tiles allowed under the rules of that particular game and adding them to his dominoes before proceeding with playing them.
Some players can build large chains of dominoes, but their skill also lies in crafting each individual domino to its fullest potential. This requires careful planning, counting each piece, placing them in order, and aligning all alignments perfectly between pieces – an often tedious and labor intensive process; yet watching that final domino fall is well worth all the hard work put in!